By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Federal Government has announced another evacuation flight for Nigerians in South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks. The flight will depart Johannesburg on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, to bring home citizens who fear for their safety. Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu disclosed the move on Monday through her official X account, saying the evacuation aims to protect Nigerians as violence against migrants continues.
FG Extends Evacuation Exercise
Odumegwu-Ojukwu said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved an extension of the evacuation programme beyond the earlier June 30 deadline.
She explained that the extension followed the successful return of three previous batches of Nigerians. A fourth evacuation flight also arrived in Nigeria on July 3, 2026.
According to the minister, another aircraft will depart for Johannesburg on Tuesday to continue the exercise.
She urged Nigerians who believe they are at risk to take advantage of the government-sponsored flights.
“Our citizens are strongly advised to take advantage of this extension and utilise the full capacity of the aircraft,” she stated.
Minister Condemns Killing of Two Nigerians
The minister condemned the deaths of two Nigerians, identified as Musa Yunana Joe and Charles Iroegbu, during the recent wave of xenophobic violence.
She called on South African authorities to launch a thorough investigation and ensure those responsible face justice.
“There are no signs that the situation is improving,” she said.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also reminded Nigerians that while damaged property can be replaced, lost lives cannot.
“Properties and investments lost can be replaced, but not lives lost,” she added.
FG Reaffirms Commitment to Citizens Abroad
The Federal Government assured Nigerians that it remains committed to protecting its citizens regardless of where they live.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria remains committed to the safety and welfare of its citizens abroad and will put all necessary measures in place to protect them,” the minister said.
She encouraged Nigerians in South Africa to carefully assess their security situation before deciding whether to remain or return home.
Tensions Continue in South Africa
The latest evacuation follows growing anti-immigrant protests across South Africa.
Several African countries have already repatriated their citizens after fringe groups demanded that undocumented migrants leave the country by June 30.
The protests turned violent in some areas, leading to attacks on foreign nationals and loss of lives.
According to South Africa’s Border Management Authority, authorities have repatriated or deported more than 35,000 people since June 7.
The groups behind the campaign accuse illegal immigrants of contributing to unemployment and pressure on public services. However, analysts argue that governance failures remain the major cause of those challenges.
Nigeria Warns South Africa
On Sunday, Nigeria warned that it could take diplomatic action if attacks against Nigerians and their businesses continue.
The government said “all options are on the table” should South African authorities fail to stop the violence and protect foreign nationals.
Meanwhile, the evacuation programme remains open for Nigerians who wish to return home until the final scheduled flight arrives in South Africa on July 10, 2026.
